Definition

Noun: A small, often rectangular box or case, traditionally made of wood, used to store and carry valuable or ceremonial items such as documents, betel leaves and areca nuts, or jewelry. It implies a sense of tradition, formality, and value.

Usage Examples

• (The lacquered and gilded wooden casket holds important documents.)
• (In the past, people often used a betel box to hold betel leaves and areca nuts during engagement ceremonies.)
• (She carefully placed the old letters inside the small case.)

Advanced Usage

• "tráp bạc": Literally "silver box/casket," often referring to a dowry box or a box for storing money and valuables.
• "tráp cau": A specific box designed for holding betel nut and areca nut, used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
• "cắp tráp theo hầu": An idiom describing the act of carrying the box while in attendance (of a superior), highlighting its traditional, servile, or ceremonial context.

Variants and Related Words

• Hộp (noun): A more general and modern term for any kind of box or case. (e.g., - gift box)
• Rương (noun): A chest or trunk, typically larger than a , used for storage.
• Hòm (noun): A chest, crate, or coffin; can be similar to but sometimes implies a simpler or heavier construction.

Synonyms

• Hộp đựng: Storage box/case.
• Cái hộp: The box.
• Ống (in specific contexts): Cylindrical case (e.g., for scrolls).

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Cắp tráp theo hầu: To carry the box while in service/attendance. This phrase evokes imagery from feudal times, where a servant would carry their master's . It can be used metaphorically to describe a subservient or assistant role.

noun

1. casket